The Power Of Kindness

Weight Easy to put on but so hard to remove, it’s so important for your health to try and shed some of the weight. Over weight leads to so many illnesses and we the people have been lead down a path of unhealthy eating habits which have made many sick an on meds. Our governments have not helped us with all the advertising on TV of takeout foods, and sugar in all the food we eat, they have not promoted healthy eating to people. 2023 come on make it your New Years resolution to loose that unwanted unhealthy weight. Loose the weight, Get rid of the meds and feel good. “LetsDoIt” u/MeMyselfAndSadSongs

The Damage That Cyclone Gabriel Has Caused

Hi everyone, food producer here. Just wanted to write an easily digestible post so people can understand how severe the destruction in H.B is for the whole of N.Z The media aren't really discussing it fully and people I speak to can't seem to wrap their head around how serious this is for us as a country.

What's been lost: It's called the fruit bowl for a reason, not just grapes and apples but also pears, onions, corn, carrots, blueberries, strawberries, honey, dairy, beef, sheep products including wool and also apiaries, nurseries and seedbanks. Wineries and orchards have had heritage trees and vines utterly wiped out. We're talking 30-40 year old plants gone. Countless bee hives and fields of crops buried under a metre of silt. These aren't just for fresh produce but also wine, vinegar, honey, bread and processed fruit and vegetables for things from muesli bars to ice cream and condiments.

The layer of silt now covering the once fertile land has been completely smothered. There's so much cleaning up to be done before people can replant and fertilise it will take years to get back even close to normal. In that time we'll see massive shortages of all the above which will effect almost all food items you can think of.

Employment: Job losses will be huge. Hipkins stated they're looking into business support payments to assist in wages but without trees to plant, prune or pick we'll see massive job losses across the entire region. Secondary food production will also take a huge hit here. Without being able to source ingredients in their usual supply at their usual price, many food producers will really suffer here. Adding to the hurt, insurance companies will take literally years to pay out those primary producers affected and not nearly to the value of what is lost either. Secondary producers don't have these protections at all so we'll likely see a lot of these businesses on both sides really struggle to get back up to speed if not close completely.

Food supplies and price increases: As mentioned earlier supplies in the supermarket will be massively affected by this. Many growers around NZ source their plants from seedbanks & nurseries in the Hawkes Bay. These folk have to order these seedlings a year in advance at least and now that they're gone - they're gone for a very long time. Strawberry, tomatoes, chillies, blueberries, broccoli, cabbages as well as leafy greens could be in short supply for at least a year. Food producers will be needing to import their raw ingredients to keep up with demand and with already shockingly high prices due to shipping - the end user ie. us will be paying significantly more for all grocery items. This is just the surface level and I think we'll be hearing a lot of discussion in the next few weeks and months going over these points.

How to help: Places like Koanga seed bank need a lot of help right now. Spread the word even if just by word of mouth and try get people more aware of how crucial this time. The longer we wait to help out, no matter how small, the longer it'll take for us as a community to get back to normal. The people I know in the region are out there on diggers in knee high mud with shovels digging out homes, dead live stock and throwing away treasured items like photo albums and doorframes with their kids height charts on them before the rot and mould sets in. They're normal people doing their best to show a brave face to one-another so words of kindness and support are hugely helpful and a massive morale boost to everyone on the ground.

In the words of the great Fred Rogers "look for the helpers, especially in times of disaster look for the helpers because then you know there's hope"

Health and Food

I watched a video on health and some of the things we need to be healthy. It made a lot of sense and it suggests that making changes in your lifestyle is very beneficial for your body to operate properly. Wow its now 3 month. how are you all doing, are you achieving good health management? I have managed to stop with the coco cola fizz drinks and drinking more water than normal. if I feel like a fizz drink I will have one but that is not often. I still need to improve my eating habits but again not so much rubbish food. My big problem is I don’t eat regular meals.

So for this next month maybe my goal will be to organise my day better and make sure I get more sleep and that will help with exercises well.

As for weight loss, nothing but its about feeling good maybe the weight loss will come later?

So for those trying to make changes I wish you luck in achieving another goal towards better health.

Good Luck

Mango Magnum

2-3 mangos

125gmVegan cream

200gm Cashews, 25gmMaple syrup

30gm coconut oil

200gm vegan choc

Peel and chop the mango place in the blender to a fine puree

Add all other ingrediencies (not the Chocolate) in a pot and cook and blend ingrediencies to a smooth cream.

Then put a layer in a ice cream mould and put a layer of the mango on top

Place in the freezer then melt your chocolate of your choice and dip the ice-cream to coat with chocolate, place in freezer

Violence

Many people believe that Domestic violence is only physical abuse. However, Domestic violence takes many different forms. It may also be psychological, sexual, financial or spiritual violence.

Physical Violence includes hitting, pinching, spitting, slapping, pushing, punching, kicking, burning, stabbing, strangulation, suffocating & shooting. It may also include threats to cause harm.

Psychological Violence (sometimes referred to as emotional or verbal abuse) includes put-downs, name calling, jealousy, harassing, screaming, using degrading language, insults, criticism, harming pets or animals, isolation from family and friends, and threats to leave the relationship or to commit suicide if the victim does not co-operate

Sexual Violence includes unwanted touching or sexual activity, raping and forcing victim into unwanted sexual practices. It may include control over birth control, forced pregnancies or abortions and transmission of Sexually Transmitted Diseases (STD)

Financial Violence occurs when an individual uses finances to control another individual. This could include forcing a person to hand over all or part of their salary or by denying someone access to their own finances, making victim ask or beg for money, forceful removal of money from victim

Spiritual Violence occurs when an individual uses religious or spiritual matters to control another, such as forcing another to follow a particular faith or give up their religion or justifying their violence as religiously and spiritually acceptable

After Suicide Support Group.

‘Choice’ So many ideas, thoughts and pain can spring out of this word when you have lost a loved one to suicide. At our ‘After Suicide Support’ group we talked about ‘choice’ in the context of ‘what now for our present and our future?’ “Saying the words I have some choice in how things go for me now is easier said than done” was one comment that got a lot of nods. Having the idea expresses an intention and that’s a good place to start. Just recognising that there are choices is another starting place. Perhaps ‘choice’ is something about steering yourself in directions that you somehow know serve you better. You might have a day where you know an afternoon on the couch under a rug is what you needeven though someone else might have other ideas for you; you get to make this choice. Or you might not feel like going to that dinner even though you know it would be good to go. Sometimes the choice is between feelings and knowing and sometimes choices need a plan around them to make them possible…. “I’ll go to that dinner but take my own car so I can leave when I’m ready”. Our group meets monthly, phone 578 4480 or email support@griefsupport.org.nz.

“Good Grief”

Time…how long does grief take? There are plenty of expectations about this, most of which aren’t particularly helpful to those grieving.

Let's check out some of the common ‘myths’ about this. Myth: A grieving person should be over their grief after two weeks. Reality: There is no definite timeline for grief; it may take weeks, months, years or a lifetime to process a loss. How long depends on the person, the situation and the type of loss. Myth: The grieving person should definitely be "over it" within two months. Reality: There is no definite timeline for grief. Myth: Grief declines over time in a steadily decreasing fashion. Reality: Grief is more like a roller coaster ride with up times and down times. Myth: Once over a loss, the grief is never experienced again. Reality: A place, a smell, a song, or a special date may trigger the old memories. Grief may be experienced again. Myth: Grief ends after the funeral. Reality: Many people believe that life should return to normal after the funeral service. However, this may be the start of the .grieving .process as the shock and numbness give way to the reality of the loss. Myth: Grief eventually ends. Reality: In time most people learn to live with the loss.

(Taken from http://dying.about.com/od/lossgrief/a/griefmyths_3.htm )

Grief Support Services is a local agency offering free counselling to individuals and families affected by loss and grief.

We also run an After Suicide Support Group. For information or to make an appointment phone us on 578 4480. www.griefsupport.org.nz

“Kia Kaha Be Strong, Kia Maea Be Brave, Kia Manawanui” Be Determined

Are You Feeling Unwell

Colds If you or a family member has a cold, it means you have a virus that is affecting your head and chest, including your nose, throat, sinuses and ears. Colds usually last 1–2 weeks. However, you could get a bacterial infection after a cold, such as an ear infection or sinus infection, which may mean you’re unwell for longer. You may also catch a cold by handling objects that were touched by someone with a cold. ►You’re more likely to get a cold if you: ►are tired, or emotionally or physically stressed ►do not have a healthy diet ►are a smoker or are exposed to second-hand smoke ►live or work in crowded conditions.

People tend to get fewer colds as they get older because they build up immunity to some of the viruses that can cause colds.

Influenza

Influenza – or the flu – is a virus that spreads quickly from person to person. Symptoms include fever, chills, aches, runny nose, a cough and stomach upset. Immunisation is your best defence against the flu. The influenza virus infects your nose, throat and lungs. The flu is normally worse than a cold.

Chestinfections(bronchitis)

There are different types of chest infections, ranging from the simple acute bronchitis that comes on with a cold, to more serious infections such as pneumonia and tuberculosis.

Bronchitis is an inflammation of the lining of your bronchial tubes, which carry air to and from your lungs. Bronchitis may be either acute or chronic. Acute bronchitis is very common.

It often develops from a cold or other respiratory infection. Chronic bronchitis is a more serious condition, involving a constant irritation or inflammation of the lining of the bronchial tubes, often due to smoking.

Sore throat

Having a sore throat is very common. The discomfort can range from a scratchy feeling to severe pain.

You must see your doctor if you or a family member experiences any of the following: ►a sore throat that lasts more than a few days ►difficulty swallowing ►your tonsils are enlarged or coated ►a high temperature (above 39°C) ►swelling in your neck ►earache or joint pain.

Fever

A fever is usually a normal response of your immune system to a virus or bacterial infection. Most healthy adults can tolerate a fever well.

Fever ranges and symptoms

38–38.9°C – mild fever

With a mild fever you might have flushed cheeks, feel a little lethargic, and warm to touch. You will generally be able to carry out normal daily activities.

39–39.9°C – high fever

With a high fever you may not feel well enough to go to work, you may have aches and pains, and you’ll feel hot to touch.

40°C or higher – very high fever

With a very high fever you will usually want to stay in bed or be inactive – you won’t feel well enough to carry out normal activities. You may have lost your appetite. You’ll feel hot to touch.

IF YOU ARE UNWELL

Drop, Cover and Hold is the right action to take in an earthquake. It stops you being knocked over, makes you a smaller target for falling and flying objects and protects your head, neck and vital organs.

• DROP down on your hands and knees. This protects you from falling but lets you move if you need to.

• COVER your head and neck (or your entire body if possible) under a sturdy table or desk (if it is within a few steps of you). If there is no shelter nearby, and cover your head and neck with your arms and hands.

HOLD on to your shelter (or your position to protect your head and neck) until the shaking stops. If the shaking shifts your shelter around, move with it.

If there is no shelter near you crawl to an inside corner of the room and cover your head and neck with your hands and arms.

Many people are injured while trying to move DURING the shaking. It is safer to Drop, Cover, and Hold until the shaking is over.

If you are near the coast

If you are near the coast and feel an earthquake that is LONG or STRONG: GET GONE.

A tsunami is a series of waves caused by large earthquakes. All of New Zealand’s coast line is at risk of tsunami. A tsunami wave can grow to become a fast moving wall of water.

If you are at the coast and experience any of the following:

• Feel a strong earthquake that makes it hard to stand up, or a weak rolling earthquake that lasts a minute or more

• See a sudden rise or fall in sea level

Hear loud and unusual noises from the sea

Move immediately to the nearest high ground, or as far inland as you can. Walk or bike if possible.

Do not wait for official warnings.

For a local source tsunami which could arrive in minutes, there won’t be time for an official warning. It is important to recognise the natural warning signs ... act quickly.

Remember, LONG or STRONG: GET GONE

Where do tsunami come from?

Tsunami can come from different sources.

A distant source tsunami, like one generated from Chile, could take 14 hours or more to arrive. A regional source tsunami, like one generated from the Southwest Pacific, could take between one and three hours to arrive. In these cases we will have time to issue official warning messages.

A local source tsunami generated from an earthquake close to New Zealand, can arrive at New Zealand coastal areas within minutes

In this case, official warnings are unlikely to be issued before damaging waves arrive, so people in coastal areas need to take immediate action if you feel an earthquake that makes it hard to stand, or lasts more than a minute – move immediately to higher ground or as far inland as possible.

Remember: LONG OR STRONG, GET GONE.

Most earthquake-related injuries and deaths result from falling debris, flying glass and collapsing structures such as buildings and bridges. Earthquakes can also trigger landslides, avalanches, flash floods, fires and tsunami.

More info http://getthru.govt.nz/disasters/earthquake/

Disaster preparedness for people with disabilities

Being prepared for any disaster is essential but if you, or a member of your household have a disability then you may need to make some extra arrangements to be able to cope in an emergency.

These include learning more about the hazards in your area, building a personal support network to help you and practicing your emergency plan.

Whether you are physically impaired or have other medical concerns you should ensure that any warning systems you use are appropriate for your needs.

You should keep at least seven days’ supply of essential medications in your home and make provision for any that need to be refrigerated. Any special dietary needs or equipment should be included.

The Disabilities Resource Centre Trust and the Bay of Plenty Emergency Management Group have prepared a document with lots of helpful tips and checklists.

For more information and help visit www.tauranga.govt.nz or www.getthru.govt.nz

How to get ready

Get your family ready Get your family together to develop and practice your household emergency plan. Assemble and maintain an emergency survival kit. Have a getaway kit in case you have to leave in a hurry.

Don’t forget your pets.

If you have pets or livestock, include them in your emergency planning. Keep your car ready.

Plan ahead for what you will do if you are in your car when a disaster strikes. In some emergencies you may be stranded in your vehicle for some time. A flood, snow storm or major traffic accident could make it impossible to proceed. Consider having essential emergency survival items in your car and keep enough fuel in your car.

Assist vulnerable people in your family or community.

If you, a family member or neighbour has a disability or any special requirement that may affect their ability to cope in a disaster, develop a support plan. For more information visit the BOP Civil Defence website at www.BOPCivilDefence.govt.nz.

Don’t forget important documents,

Are you prepared for an emergency?

The Tauranga area faces a number of potential hazards, such as earthquakes, tsunami, and flooding. We can’t remove these hazards, but we can take steps to reduce the impacts of an emergency event, and prepare ourselves to recover more quickly and comfortably. Steps we

2

– Make your home safer 3

– Prepare an out of region contact

– Identify your nearest Civil Defence Centre For more visit www.tauranga.govt.nz or www.getthru.govt.nz

The Mauao Base Track Damage to the base track has been repaired and it is open for the public to enjoy a 45min breath taking walk around taking in many views of water rocks and trees along with wildlife.

The steps are still in place but not suitable for prams, strollers or wheelchairs. No dogs, no bikes.

Walking time: Base track: 45 mins. To summit: 40 mins

Owens Park and Waioraka Reserve are among the city's most scenic pathways. The tracks in Johnson Reserve follow streams, wetland areas, native bush and open grassed areas.

Walking time: Allow 2 hours to explore these areas completely. 40 mins will enable you to walk from James Cook Drive through Johnson Reserve to Victory St, or complete the smaller loops.

Papamoa Walkway A series of pathways follow the Papamoa stormwater reserves, providing a walking and cycle link from Pacific View Road to Wairakei Reserve.

Walking time: Papamoa Domain to Pacific View Rd: 40 mins

Pacific View Rd to Gravatt Rd via Hartford Ave Reserve: 45 mins

Papamoa Beach Reserve to Wairakei Reserve: 50 mins

Wairakei Reserve loop: 25 mins

Waimapu estuary walkway

Yatton Park is home to some of the city's tallest trees and is a popular dog walking area.

Walking time: Yatton Park/Turret Rd: 1 hour Esk St/Yatton Park loop: 40 mins return

McLaren Falls consists of 190 hectares of lakeland park with one of the best botanical collections of trees in the North Island. The park has extensive walkways.

Pāpāmoa Hills Regional Park is a 135 hectare property explored and enjoyed by thousands of visitors each month. Located in the Western Bay of Plenty, near Te Puke, The summit is 224 metres above sea level and offers sweeping views of the Bay of Plenty coastline. There are several tracks through the park which can be used to enjoy the views and explore the numerous archaeological features, including seven pa sites.

The Tauranga CBD is notable for its historical points of interest. Walk along The Strand and dip your toes in the water at the tidal steps, or visit one of the restaurants and bars that dot the waterfront. Take a look at the Elms Mission House, the oldest building in Tauranga, or walk up to Robbins Park to view the rose garden and tropical display house There are walking and cycling paths across the harbour bridge to Mount Maunganui, and a rail bridge to Matapihi.

Access to the Ohauiti Reserve The site office for the McFetridge Lane Upgrade is at the entrance to Quail Ridge. There is space to access the Ohauiti Reserve from this point. However, it is important to be cautious when navigating around this specific area. Please be careful not to enter the work areas. An alternative way to enter the reserve is off Ohauiti Road. This work is scheduled to be complete in mid-July 2019. A destination walkway featuring bushwalks, flood plains and open grasslands.

Waikareao Estuary Walkway

Waikareao Estuary is an easy twenty minute walk from the busy Tauranga shopping center. The walk around Waikareao estuary is a mixture of boardwalks, gravel and sealed footpath, plus there is an abundance of bird life to watch on this walk. After the relaxing walk you can call into one of three excellent cafes to replenish the lost energy.

Location: North Island NZ, Distance: 10 km

Time needed: 2 Hours, Difficulty: Very Easy, Toilets: Yes

Wheelchair Access: No, Route: Round Trip, Dogs: Leash only

Elevation: Unknown, Wet Feet: No, Mobile Coverage: Yes